A weekly interactive podcast will present topics focused on creating
more functional, sustainable cities. Listeners are invited to join in and
share their considerations.

The John. S. and James L. Knight Foundation recently announced the launch of a new weekly audio series, "Knight Cities," which will feature civic innovators who will impart ideas and help engage leaders and citizens in crafting more successful cities.

"Building better cities that reflect the aspirations of the people who live in them requires new thinking and a community of doers," said Carol Coletta, Knight Foundation vice president of community and national initiatives.

The series will showcase a variety of lessons for cities, which will include better transit planning and public space improvements. Topics will aim to help cities solve some of their most pressing challenges and create more livable, vibrant places.

The first show features popular visual artist and urban planner Theaster Gates, who discusses his work using arts and culture to revitalize underinvested communities. Guests in the coming weeks include:

• Gil Penalosa, executive director of 8-80s Cities, on designing cities for all people.
• San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed on creating public-private sector partnerships to engage talent and spark civic innovation.
• Brian Boyer, architect at Dash Marshall and partner of Makeshift Society, on the changing labor market and the growing role of independent workers.
• Jeff Risom, head of Gehl Architects, on quality of life and the built environment.